Bridging in Biodiversity Science

Bridging in Biodiversity Science (BIBS) builds on the existing, long-term research strategies of the BBIB institutions. The overarching goal of BBIB is to bridge disciplines, scales and systems in biodiversity research. The BIBS project constitutes a core study within the BBIB framework, aiming to provide a proof-of-principle for the bridging approach. Focusing on ‘rapid transitions of ecological systems’ as one of the most pressing challenges in biodiversity research, BIBS will conduct studies at key interfaces commonly neglected in conventional biodiversity research and evaluate the added value and limitations of the bridging concept.

The work packages within BIBS are designed to study the entire chain of causes, mechanisms and consequences of rapid transitions across different ecosystems and spatio-temporal scales. The results will be collated in an overall synthesis, with conceptual publications intended for the scientific community, policy makers and the general public.

Furthermore, BIBS comprises a Citizen Science component which aims to bridge science, policy makers and citizens by supporting research, engaging and integrating the public. To this end, we will establish a platform for knowledge exchange with policy and society. BIBS also establishes a dedicated experimental research platform (ScapeLabs), which permits the work proposed in the work packages.

With its unique focus, BIBS is a project that complements existing biodiversity research projects and programs in Germany and beyond.